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Definitions A set of values x 1,…,x n satisfies all constraints is a feasible vector The function we are trying to minimize is called the objective function The feasible vector that minimizes the objective function is called the optimal feasible vector

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Constraints An optimal feasible vector may not exist – No feasible vectors – No minimum, one or more variables can be taken to infinity while still satisfying constraints

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Simplex Generalization of the tetrahedron Algorithm moves along edges of polytope from starting vertex to the optimal solution

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Fundamental Theorem of Linear Optimization Boundary of any geometrical region has one less dimension than its interior – Continue to run down boundaries until we meet a vertex of the original simplex – Solution of n simultaneous equalities Points that are feasible vectors and satisfy n of the original constraints as equalities are termed feasible vectors If an optimal feasible vector exists, then there is a feasible basic vector that is optimal.

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Example Use Gauss-Jordan to perform row pivots to find the solution Non -basic variables are those that are present in multiple rows, basic are only in one row Start with basic feasible solution by setting non-basic variables to zero and solving for basic variables – x1 = x2 = 0, x3 = 4, x4 = 3, z = 0

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Example Rule 1 – If all variables have a non-negative coefficient in Row 0, the current basic feasible solution is optimal. Otherwise, pick a variable x j with a negative coefficient in Row 0 Converts a non-basic variable to a basic variable and a basic variable to a non-basic variable The non-basic variable chosen is called the entering variable the basic variable that becomes non-basic is called the leaving variable The variable chosen doesn’t matter as long as it conforms to rule 1.

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Example How to choose the pivot element? Rule 2 – For each Row I, I >= 1, where there is a strictly positive “entering variable co- efficient”, compute the ratio of the Right Hand Side to the “entering variable coefficient”. Choose the pivot row as being the one with the Minimum ratio.